This is the first challenge for the campaign. Here are the instructions from Rachael's post.

Write a short story/flash fiction story in 200 words or less, excluding the title. It can be in any format, including a poem. Begin the story with the words, “Shadows crept across the wall”. These five words will be included in the word count.

If you want to give yourself an added challenge (optional), do one or more of these:

• end the story with the words: "everything faded." (also included in the word count) – check

• include the word "orange" in the story – check

• write in the same genre you normally write – check

• make your story 200 words exactly! – check

Feel free to use the picture to inspire you, or else see how whacky, creative, and original you can get
 

Shadows crept across the wall as the light faded, showcasing a canvas splashed in shades of orange-red-gold.

Inside the bungalow were two occupants. They could hear the nearby sea as the tide rushed in, competing with the distant music of the jungle night.

An uneasy quiet lingered…

"Where to from here?" She was always direct.

His face revealed nothing. "It's probably too late…" a convenient sigh, as if on cue.

The bastard. What a nerve, thinking it was that simple. "This moment is long overdue…"

Next to the remnants of a half-eaten dinner, the candle flickered.

Outside, the heartbeat of the jungle came to life. It was a living, breathing, pulsating creature; a raw and primitive cacophony of weird sounds that combined to create a unique and sensual rhythm.

"What do you want me to say?" He was seldom disagreeable, typical Mr. Quiet.

The sounds intensified… reached a swelling crescendo…

"Something? Anything! Curse! Swear!" She shrugged.

He smiled, the true master of verbal diplomacy.

The tiny microphone pressed softly against her shoulder blade…

The cacophony reached fever pitch… they could feel it obliterate all rational thought… there was no escaping its power…

A single scream pierced the night…

…everything faded.

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